If you don’t think this bridge beautiful then I have nothing more to say to you. Constructed in 1896 by the Union Bridge Company of Athens Pennsylvania, this historic span combines many elements in a truly unique fashion making it one of a kind in this country. While at first glance it appears to be an eyebar suspension bridge, which I assumed it was, it’s actually a cantilevered thru truss bridge. After the historic floods of the mid 1950s the central portion of the bridge washed out, something a true suspension bridge could not have withstood. It’s been rehabilitated in 1924, 1957, 1990, 2002, and most recently in 2023. This demonstrates that historic truss bridges can be kept in working order but as with all bridges regular maintenance is essential. The decorative elements on this bridge are second to none, with the states seals of New Jersey and Pennsylvania adorning the two towers. Are those oil derricks as the finials? And if you’re in the area stay after dark to see how the bridge comes to life with modern color leds illuminating all the truss elements. Absolutely spectacular. Proof we can have nice things! And it’s not even a toll bridge!

A little history of this crossing. It was first managed by David Martin’s ferry starting in 1739. A wooden covered bridge was built in 1806 which stood until this bridge was constructed atop its piers and abutments in 1896.